Become a Member

Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more.

Already have an account? Sign In

Become a Member

Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more.

Already have an account? Sign In

Brands

Training

How Do I Stay Focused For My Final Race Of 2016?

Lack of motivation is quite common for athletes who have been consistently training all year and are headed toward their final event.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.

Q: I’m struggling with motivation this late in the season. Any tips for staying focused for my final race of the year?

A: These feelings are quite common for athletes who have been consistently training all year and are headed toward their final event. If you have one, turn to a coach, mentor or trusted advisor and share your thoughts with these like-minded individuals. Ask them to hold you accountable and make sure you “get out the door” each day. If you are not already doing so, track each training session so you see exactly what you did and note if you are skipping or cutting short too many swims, rides or runs.

RELATED: Shake Off Your Mid-Season Rut

I also recommend that athletes find a Masters swim group and work with them at least one or two days a week. Tell your lane mates and the coach on deck about your final race, and you might be surprised how they support you. Work to join a group run one day a week as this will not only add a social component, but will give you something to look forward to as you mark it on your calendar. There is a better chance of you attending that run session if you know you might let others down by not showing up. Since most long rides or bricks are done on the weekends, grab a training buddy or two and schedule these in advance. Your ride might not be the same as theirs, but there are still benefits to joining the group.

RELATED: Advice For Navigating The Group Run

If group training is not possible, look for a positive online forum focused on your sport. Many exist on Facebook and some are specific to certain events and you can ask questions and share your thoughts. Remind yourself why you started training for this race in the first place and keep the end goal in mind.

Tony Hammett is the founder and head coach of the Peak Racing Team based in Atlanta, Ga.

RELATED: Motivation Tips From A Fellow Age-Grouper

Video: 4X World Champion Mirinda Carfrae Makes Her Picks for 70.3 Chattanooga

Carfrae and former pro Patrick Mckeon break down the iconic course in Chattanooga, who looks good for the pro women's race, and their predictions for how the day will play out.